Girls learning about careers and local tech companies at Women in Tech event at StarSpace46

Oklahoma Women in Technology hosted Behind The Scenes, a retreat designed to educate girls in grades 7 through 12 about the breadth of career opportunities in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) and support their future participation in the technology workforce.

During the half-day retreat May 5, 100 girls from across the state toured data centers and technology departments at Sonic Corp., Oklahoma City Thunder and WeGoLook, according to a news release. They listened to speakers from the tech departments who shared their personal stories and encouraged the young women to consider career paths in technology.

“Statistically, only 18 percent of all undergraduate computer and information sciences degrees are obtained by women, and only 25 percent of all computing occupations are held by women. Our mission is to change that for Oklahoma's youth,” said Brandy Semore, OKWIT board president.

Behind the Scenes participants pose for a photo

In recognition of the gender gap in technology, Behind The Scenes offered girls the chance to explore the roles, experiences and educational programs that await women in technical careers. Behind The Scenes also encouraged participants to interact with growing technologies and potential career paths, while networking with technology professionals.

Participants also had the chance to apply for scholarships awarded by OKWIT for STEM-related degrees.

Lunch was hosted by StarSpace46, a co-working and innovation hub where technologists, investors, designers, entrepreneurs and dreamers can meet, collaborate, share and create new ideas and new businesses.

WeGoLook is a mobile-technology company, often known as the "Uber of Inspections" that dispatches agents to collect data for its clients.